On May 14, 2025, the Carnival Paradise cruise ship, operated by Carnival Cruise Line, executed a maritime rescue operation, saving five individuals adrift in a makeshift raft off the coast of Cuba. The vessel was en route from Key West, Florida, to Montego Bay, Jamaica, during a six-night Western Caribbean voyage when the crew spotted the distressed raft south of Cabo San Antonio, Cuba .
Upon identifying the small, overcrowded craft, the ship’s crew promptly launched a lifeboat to assist. Approximately 15 people were aboard the raft; five accepted rescue and were brought onto the Carnival Paradise, while the remaining individuals declined assistance. The crew provided those who stayed behind with food, water, and fuel, and notified the U.S. Coast Guard to coordinate further aid .
The rescued individuals received medical evaluations, nourishment, and shelter aboard the cruise ship. They are expected to be transferred to appropriate authorities at an upcoming port of call or upon the ship’s return to Tampa, Florida, on May 18, 2025 .
This incident adds to Carnival Paradise’s history of maritime rescues. Notably, the ship assisted 27 Cuban nationals in April 2024 and six individuals in August 2022 under similar circumstances .
Passengers aboard the Carnival Paradise expressed admiration for the crew’s swift and compassionate response. One cruiser, Debra Bundrum, remarked, “We just have to pray they make it safely wherever they are going. I’m glad that they were spotted” .
Following the rescue, the Carnival Paradise continued its scheduled itinerary, arriving in Montego Bay, Jamaica, on May 15, 2025, and proceeding to George Town, Grand Cayman, on May 16, 2025 .
This event underscores the critical role cruise ships can play in maritime safety and the importance of vigilance and preparedness at sea.
